Alfarnate

Nestled at an altitude of 900 metres, lies a captivating mountain village called ... that is dominated by the majestic "Cerro del Santo Cristo". The old centre of the village is graced by the "Ermita de la Virgen de Monsalud", a complex of buildings with a rich history dating back to the 16th century. For those who seek a thrilling experience, the Venta de Alfarnate restaurant houses the life-size headless figure of the infamous bandit Luis Candelas. This legendary figure was condemned to death in 1837 and is believed to have roamed around the mountain village with a little headache.

Algarrobo

Translated, Algarrobo means "Carob tree," and like many villages in La Axarquía, it boasts a rich history. Evidence of human settlements from the Bronze Age has been discovered in Algarrobo. While Algarrobo Pueblo is a tranquil haven, Algarrobo Costa is a bustling hub for tourists and expats alike, offering a plethora of bars and restaurants. Interestingly, the town council even has German-speaking members.

Almáchar

Almáchar, a mountain village located just 15 minutes away from the coast, derives its name from the Moorish word 'Al Maysar', which translates to 'the meadows'. The village is nestled in a breathtaking natural landscape that boasts picturesque views. Almáchar is renowned for being the hub of Moscatel grape cultivation, a local delicacy. Every year on the first Saturday of September, the village celebrates its famous 'Dia del Ajoblanco' - a day dedicated to the cold garlic and almond soup that has put Almáchar on the map.

Almayate

Almayate, also known as 'La ciudád sin ley' or the outlaw village, is a remarkable and secure place to reside. The cherry on top is the pristine 'Playa del Hornillo', which is the only unblemished beach stretch along the Costa del Sol. Interestingly, the renowned cathedral of Málaga was constructed using stones extracted from the vicinity of the famous Osborne bull.

Árchez

Situated at an altitude of approximately 500 meters near Sayalonga, lies a small village that boasts of 500 inhabitants. Like many other villages in the region, it was once renowned for its wine growing. However, today, fig and almond trees have taken over as the main economic assets. Of course, tourism is also a significant contributor to the village's economy, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the coast.

Arenas

The exquisite town of Arenas is nestled beneath the remnants of the Moorish castle fortress, 'Benthomiz'. The Barrio Alto boasts of skilled artisans like blacksmiths and potters, while the Barrio Bajo houses the Santa Catalina church and the original 12th-century mosque, which was reconstructed after a fire in 1926. Perched high above Arenas, the town offers an unparalleled view of the coast, which can be reached by car in just 15 minutes.

Benagalbón

Torre de Benagalbón is an ideal location for commuters traveling between their holiday home and work, thanks to its excellent connectivity to Rincon de la Victoria (2 km) and Malaga (12 km). Additionally, the renowned Añoreta 18-hole golf course is located nearby. Don't miss out on the breathtaking views from the fortified tower of Torre de Benagalbón, which dates back to the late Middle Ages.

Benajarafe

Nestled between Almayate and Rincón de la Victoria lies the picturesque coastal village of Benajarafe, boasting an impressive array of amenities. Take a leisurely stroll along the stunning promenade, lined with authentic 'chiringuitos', swaying palm trees, and lush banana trees. The village's crowning jewel is the Torre Moya or Torre Gordo, a formidable tower dating back to the 18th century that stands proudly at the entrance.

Benamargosa

The history of this place is steeped in pride, dating all the way back to the 15th century. Situated in close proximity to the La Axarquía leisure airport, the neighboring countryside boasts an abundance of avocado, mango, and citrus tree plantations. During the customary village fair, one can revel in the sounds of Andalusian music while sipping on "baticates," a local beverage crafted from avocado and cinnamon - an acquired taste, no doubt.

Benamocarra

Like many villages in La Axarquía, this village has Arabic roots. Its name comes from a Berber tribe, reflecting its rich cultural heritage. At the heart of the village lies the magnificent 16th-century church of Santa Ana, surrounded by a bustling town centre that boasts an array of amenities such as doctors' offices, banks, bars, and restaurants. Whether you choose to prioritize your health or indulge in some refreshments is entirely up to you!

Cajiz

The village is flawlessly linked to the provincial capital, Málaga, reachable in under 20 minutes by car. Within the village, the 18th-century parish church of San José is nestled amidst towering trees and authentic ruins. The agricultural landscape is dominated by avocado and mango plantations.

Caleta de Vélez

Caleta is the epitome of coastal villages on the Costa del Sol, a true gem that shines bright. Its marina and fishing port are iconic symbols of the town, renowned far beyond the borders of La Axarquía. The spectacular fish restaurant 'La Cabaña' is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates fine dining. Caleta is a melting pot of cultures, with people from all nationalities calling it home. This diversity ensures a comprehensive infrastructure, including multilingual lawyers, tax consultants, veterinarians, and typical Andalusian wine bars. In Caleta, you can find everything your heart desires, there is nothing that does not exist.

Canillas de Aceituno

Nestled between the towering Maroma, which stands at a staggering height of 2,065 metres, and the Sierra de Tejeda lies an exquisite settlement situated at an altitude of almost 650 metres northeast of Vélez-Málaga. This location offers one of the most breathtaking views over the Viñuela reservoir. The Arabic settlement was transformed into a hub for silk trade after the Christians in Canillas marked their cross on the ground. As you indulge in the "Dia de la Morcilla," a day dedicated to the Spanish delicacy of blood sausage, you may find that one or two silk scarves make for elegant table napkins.

Chilches

Chilches Costa, situated approximately twelve kilometres away from Málaga, lies between Benajarafe and Rincon de la Victoria. Its beach section is a well-known spot for kite surfers, offering breathtaking views of Torremolinos, Estepona, and Marbella on clear days. Surprisingly, Chilches, despite its small size, had its own town hall in the past. However, it was only until 1868 when it merged with Almayate, Triana, and other areas to become part of the municipality of Vélez-Málaga.

Colmenar

Colmenar, situated some 700 meters above sea level in the far west of La Axarquía, is a hidden gem that exudes an air of mystery. Despite being one of the younger villages in the region, having only become an independent municipality in 1777, Colmenar has quickly established itself as the secret capital of the area. The locals affectionately refer to it as a beehive, which is fitting given its main attraction: the Honey Museum located in the heart of the village.

Comares

Perched atop one of the peaks in La Axarquía is a village that commands attention - known as the eagle's nest, it has served as an impregnable fortress for those who sought to protect their interests in times past. The village boasts of legendary blue ceramic footprints adorned with intricate Arabic motifs that lead visitors to the monument in "Plaza de los Verdiales". Here, amidst ancient walls steeped in history, a group of men create music that is sure to captivate your senses. This attraction is just one of the many reasons why this village is a must-visit destination.

Cómpeta

The individual who resides in Cómpeta is a true wine enthusiast. On August 15th, the village hosts the highly anticipated 'Noche del Vino', where copious amounts of wine flow through the charming alleys while lively flamenco music and dancing fill the air. This event has earned Cómpeta a well-deserved reputation as one of the most authentic and delightful villages in La Axarquía. Despite its tranquil ambiance, this village is conveniently situated just 20 minutes away from the bustling coastal life.

Cútar

The charming town of Aina Alcaharia, nestled between Benamargosa and El Borge, boasts the renowned 'Fuente del Paraiso' or fountain of paradise. This magnificent fountain is supplied by twelve natural springs located within the city, making it a unique attraction in the province of Málaga. Originally a religious site for the Arabs, it was later transformed into a fountain that has captivated visitors for generations.

EL Borge

The village boasts a rich history, having once been the dwelling place of the infamous one-eyed bandit, known as ...Borge. The very house in which he was born has now been transformed into a multifaceted establishment, serving as a hotel, museum, and restaurant all at once. Additionally, traces of the legendary bandolero, who graced the world with his presence from 1837 to 1889 in Lucena, can be found throughout the village. While the botanical garden 'La Alcúa' is not associated with any criminal activity, it is no less awe-inspiring, featuring an array of exotic flora and fauna.

Frigiliana

Frigiliana, deemed by many as the most exquisite village in La Axarquía, boasts a population of over 3,000 inhabitants. Not only is it one of the largest towns in the region, but it also holds a significant place in history. Legend has it that countless Moors would rather meet their demise by jumping off the fortress atop the hill overlooking Frigiliana than be caught by the Christians. Nevertheless, today's Frigiliana paints a different picture - its pristine streets adorned with vibrant front doors and shutters of white houses.

Iznate

Iznate is a village that stands out from the rest due to its captivating mountain views, unlike many other villages that rely on sea views. The village boasts of picturesque small houses, steep alleys, and colorful house facades, all of which are characteristic of an authentic Andalusian village straight out of a picture book. What's more, the plants in Iznate thrive exceptionally well, adding to the enchanting ambiance of the village. Want to know their secret? Instead of water, the villagers wipe the leaves with beer to rid them of dust and sand.

Los Romanes

It is simply unimaginable to picture the village without the Viñuela reservoir. The construction of this artificial water reservoir has transformed a scattered group of houses into an independent and thriving village. In close proximity lies Karma Guen, which happens to be one of the largest Buddhist centers in Europe. This small area seamlessly blends Spanish tradition with Asian philosophy, making La Axarquía an exceptional destination.

Macharaviaya

The unspeakable truth about Macharavi is that it boasts of a remarkable figure, the Zinc Man, who stands tall above all in the village. This is because, from 1766 onwards, the village exported up to 30,000 playing-card decks annually, made of cardboard sourced from Benalmádena and Maro, to various parts of the world. Today, at the heart of the village with an unpronounceable name, lies a fascinating museum dedicated to playing cards. The museum is located in the home of Miguel Gálvez, the Spanish ambassador to Russia, who introduced Catherine the Great to the exquisite taste of sweet Andalusian wine.

Moclinejo

Just like numerous villages in La Axarquía, this village was constructed by the Moors and later conquered by the Christians during the “Reconquista”. However, during that time, the Muslims valiantly defended themselves by hurling stones and logs at the Christians, successfully hitting them. This is why the ravine in Moclinejo is still known as 'Hoya de los Muertos'. Nevertheless, the joy of savoring the renowned traditional sweet Moscatel wine of the village is still very much alive, even without a cross and a tree trunk.

Nerja

Nerja, boasting its stunning Balcony of Europe and mesmerizing stalactite cave, stands out as one of the prominent metropolises in Axarquía. It entices a plethora of tourists every year, predominantly English, who often choose to extend their stay. The population of Nerja and its surroundings is approximately 23,000, with 30% hailing from various parts of the globe. This diversity makes Nerja an ideal destination for those seeking multilingual services, such as Andalusians, who strive to preserve their traditions even amidst the tourism boom.

Periana

La Axarquía boasts a veritable gem in the form of a healthy heart. Merely two kilometers from the village, lies a meticulously carved stone well that dates back over a millennium. The water from this well is believed to possess therapeutic properties, making it a true fountain of youth. This oasis is nestled amidst picturesque peach and olive groves, offering breathtaking views of the Viñuela reservoir. It is the epitome of La Axarquía's charm and allure.

Rincón de la Victoria

Alcaucín, one of the largest towns in La Axarquía like its counterpart Nerja, boasts a renowned natural wonder: the Cueva del Tesoro. This cave is home to nearly 500 meters of awe-inspiring cave paintings, remnants from the Neolithic Stone Age, and ancient animal remains. Legend has it that the treasure cave still holds valuable gold and gems, but beware - it is said to be fiercely protected by mystical creatures such as gnomes, fairies, and elves. Best of luck on your quest for riches!

Riogordo

Every year, Riogordo celebrates the lightning festivity known as the Day of the Snail. Guests from all over the world gather to indulge in the traditional broth of land snail feast. The snails themselves feel right at home here, thanks to the abundance of moisture provided by the thick river that runs through the town. Although nowadays, it is more like a small stream, it still manages to provide ample nourishment for the thriving snail population.

Sayalonga

Sayalonga, nestled in La Axarquía, boasts of being one of the most pristine villages in the region. Its round cemetery alone draws over 3,000 visitors annually, cementing its status as a top attraction. For those seeking more adventure, a journey through La Alcuza awaits. This narrow road, measuring only 55cm wide, promises to be an unforgettable experience. On October 7th, Sayalonga commemorates its harvest festival, complete with locally produced wine - a celebration not to be missed!

Sedella

Sedella, a village nestled at an altitude of nearly 700 metres, boasts a breathtaking view of the Alhucemas Natural Park Mountains in Morocco on clear days. The traditional charm of this village has remained intact despite being ravaged by a massive earthquake almost 250 years ago. Many buildings from the 16th century still stand tall, radiating the grandeur of a bygone era, and adding to the allure of Sedella, much like other villages in La Axarquía.

Torre del Mar

The 'Torre del Drama' or 'Vélez Costa', fondly referred to as such, stands out as the top destination for tourists and emigrants in La Axarquía. Interestingly, this place was once a significant hub for sugar cane cultivation, which continued until 1991 when brandy production ceased in Torre del Mar. If you opt for a gin and tonic from our selection (and avoid the unpleasant English Beefeater), rest assured that it will be sourced from the Larios distillery - the same folks who produced the sugar cane.

Torrox

Torrox is a highly sought-after destination, particularly among German tourists and emigrants. The popularity of this place is evident from the availability of Jägerschnitzel with chips and German Pils. However, Torrox has much more to offer than just these delicacies. Have you ever tried migas? It is an authentic Spanish dish that holds a special place in the hearts of locals. Originally, it was a staple food for the less affluent harvesters, made using stale bread, olive oil, garlic, and any leftover meat available. Migas is a must-try when visiting the Costa del Sol, as it represents the traditional cuisine of the Spanish agricultural world.

Totalán

The village, known as 'torta' after an Arab pastry, celebrates its annual festival every November with a delectable stew called Chanfaina. This hearty dish is made from potatoes, blood sausage, offal, breadcrumbs, cumin, and other savory ingredients that give it a distinctly Christian appearance. You can find this mouth-watering delicacy in the “Plaza de la Constitución”, located next to the 17th century church of Santa Ana. Interestingly, this is the same square where the celebrated flamenco singer, Enrique Castillo, used to perform his music before rising to fame throughout Spain.

Trapiche

Merely ten minutes away from the coast, lies a quintessential village in La Axarquía, named after a mill that once stood where the village stands today. The old Trapiche station building is located nearby, and it houses a monument dedicated to the village's most renowned poet, Juan Jurado Lorca. If you're fortunate enough, you might catch a glimpse of this monument from one of the small planes that embark on daily sightseeing flights over the coast, taking off from the leisure airport in La Axarquía.

Triana

Triana, also known as "The Heart of La Axarquía," boasts a charming white village surrounded by vast mango and avocado plantations. Located just 5 kilometers from Vélez-Málaga, with its abundance of national and international institutions, Triana is the ideal destination for those seeking an authentic Andalusian experience without sacrificing modern comforts.

Vélez-Málaga

Vélez-Málaga, the capital of La Axarquía, is a charming town located just one kilometer away from Torre del Mar. Its old town, which was declared a Historic-Artistic Monument in the 1970s, exudes an irresistible allure that captivates visitors. However, the true gem of this town is La Fortaleza (The Fortress), which looms over the old town and served as the most significant landmark in the region during the 13th to 15th century. After the Reconquista in 1487, it became the headquarters of the Catholic Monarchs, adding to its historical significance.

Viñuela

Translated, "La Viñuela" means the small vineyard. For several decades, it has overlooked the largest reservoir on the Costa del Sol. Excavations have revealed that the surrounding area and the present lake were among the first to be inhabited by humans. However, the village itself was only established in the 18th century, making it one of the youngest settlements in La Axarquía, if not the youngest. Perhaps you will soon become one of the newest residents in one of the oldest settlement areas in southern Spain.

Zafarraya

The gateway to Granada offers breathtaking views from an altitude of approximately 900 meters, stretching all the way down to zero meters above sea level and encompassing Torre del Mar and the coast of La Axarquía. It's no wonder that even the Neanderthals, who inhabited the area before us, must have been awestruck by this stunning vista. Evidence of their presence can be found in the Cueva del Boquete, where bones, teeth, and tools were discovered in the 1980s and 1990s.